Did the British Liberal Government of 1906-14 Create the Early Welfare State?

In January 1906 the Liberals came to power after winning the general election by a massive majority over the Tories. Once in power they were to set about on creating the basic foundations for the begininning of a welfare state. Social reforms would begin to be made, within which the government would take up more responsibilty, no longer adopting the 'laissez-faire' attitude. These reforms were introduced in order to improve living standards and to help aide ever worsening poverty.
Before the introduction of the social reforms there was only one other mean of financial aide which was the 'Poor Law'. This was a simple collection to help aide the poor. Alternatively the workhouse was available which was undesirable due to the horrific and inhumane surroundings within. …